To take notes or not to take notes?

Imagine this: you're sitting in a lecture at 10 am Monday and wondering whether you should be taking notes or just reading through the slides (or going back to sleep).

In this blog post, we explore the pros, the cons, and the different styles of note-taking and help you select the right approach for each lecture. 

The science of memory and note-taking

Our ability to retain information relies on a process called encoding, where new information is transferred from short-term to long-term memory.  Many studies suggest that taking notes promotes deeper cognitive processing, moving information beyond superficial memorization.  The act of writing itself engages the motor cortex, strengthening memory pathways.

Detailed slides — don’t copy them word by word

When lecture slides are comprehensive, copying them word by word can be counterproductive. Studies suggest that passive copying reduces cognitive load, hindering the formation of strong memory associations. 

What you can do instead:

Download slides beforehand! This frees up lecture time for critical thinking.

Add notes to key points! Highlighting or summarizing key concepts keeps you focused and strengthens memory pathways.

Formulate questions! Identify areas needing clarification. Asking questions during lectures or in study groups promotes active recall, which is a powerful memory tool.

Simple slides with minimal text — take written and visual notes

Slides with minimal text can benefit from written and visual note-taking. Adding your own thoughts, drawing diagrams, mind maps, and concept trees activate the visual cortex, enhancing information processing. 

Students using visual note-taking showed improved recall compared to those using linear note formats.

The teacher or professor diverts from the subject — capture key concepts

Teachers and professors often elaborate beyond the slides, highlighting crucial details. Capture these in your notes, but don't just copy. You can paraphrase and condense information, a practice that improves memory encoding. 

If for some reason, the slides don’t match the lecturer's content, try to capture the most important words and how the terms are connected. Lecture capture saves the day, but in any other instance just try to write down as much as possible during the lecture. Do not panic, ask around after the class and Google the terms at home.

Collaborate with classmates!

Don't be afraid to collaborate with peers during lectures. Group discussions can clarify concepts and prompt active recall. Consider the "peer explanation effect," where explaining a concept to someone else strengthens your own understanding.

Strategic note-taking improves retention!

Taking notes is not a passive activity; it's an active learning strategy that can significantly enhance your ability to retain complex medical information.  

By tailoring your note-taking approach to the lecture format and your learning style, you can transform those early morning lectures from a struggle to a springboard for academic success.

If you want to study faster and more efficiently with digital flashcards, download Voovo from the App Store or Google Play.